Classics is the study of the languages, literature, history, art, archaeology and material culture of the ancient world — and the influence these ideas and cultures continue to have on the world today.
It is one of the most interdisciplinary subjects, bringing together literature, history, philosophy, politics, art and languages. Through the study of ancient societies, pupils explore enduring questions about identity, power, belief, creativity and what it means to be human.
Once viewed as a subject reserved for a privileged few, Classics is now being rediscovered in schools across the country as a subject that can inspire, challenge and benefit all pupils.
The study of classical subjects can:
Classics helps challenge the idea that classical subjects are only for a select few. By widening access, schools can give all pupils the opportunity to engage with ambitious ideas, develop confidence and see themselves as capable of succeeding in academic subjects.
The stories, ideas and achievements of the ancient world continue to influence modern literature, art, theatre, film, architecture and politics. Understanding these connections helps pupils make sense of the world around them and engage more deeply with the cultural references they encounter.
Classics teaches pupils to analyse evidence, question assumptions and develop reasoned arguments. Through the study of ancient texts and material culture, pupils learn to interpret complex information and consider different perspectives.
The ancient world offers opportunities to explore questions that remain relevant today, including identity, citizenship, power, inequality and social change. Studying past societies helps pupils understand both the diversity of human experiences and the connections between the ancient and modern worlds.
Latin and Ancient Greek provide a rigorous foundation in language. Studying grammar, translation and vocabulary develops precision, analytical thinking and a deeper understanding of how languages work.
Many English words have their origins in Latin and Greek. Recognising these connections helps pupils understand unfamiliar vocabulary, improve spelling and develop confidence when encountering challenging texts.
Latin and Ancient Greek help pupils recognise patterns in grammar and vocabulary that appear across many languages. This builds confidence, improves linguistic awareness and supports the learning of modern languages.
Classics encourages pupils to ask questions about the past and make connections with the present. It develops curiosity, imagination and a lasting interest in the stories, ideas and achievements that have shaped the world we live in.
The ideas, stories and debates of the ancient world continue to shape modern literature, art, politics and culture. Studying Classics helps pupils recognise these connections and understand how the past continues to influence the present.
Classics encourages pupils to ask questions about the past and make connections with the present. It develops curiosity, imagination and a lasting interest in the stories, ideas and achievements that have shaped the world we live in.
Classics is not simply the study of the ancient world — it is a way of understanding the ideas, stories and cultures that continue to shape our lives today. Making Classics accessible to all pupils ensures that everyone can benefit from the knowledge, skills and perspectives it offers.
See what teachers and pupils have to say about the impact of Classics in their schools on our testimonials page.